Effect of Peer Group on the Behaviour of Students in Senior Secondary School; (a Case Study of Some Selected Schools in Ondo East Local Government Ondo, Ondo State)

This study investigates the effect of peer groups on the behaviour of students in Senior Secondary Schools in Ondo East Local Government Area, Ondo State, Nigeria. The research objectives and questions were formulated to explore the varied influence of peer groups on the behaviour of senior secondary school students. Three research questions were used has guide for the study in which 100 questionnaires were used for the analysis of the survey which included 43 male students and 57 female students which participated and was distributed among students in SS1,SS2,SS3 classes, to examine the types of peer pressure experienced by students, analyze their coping mechanisms, investigate potential correlations between peer group dynamics and academic performance within the selected schools, and identify strategies for educators, parents, and stakeholders to foster positive peer interactions and mitigate negative influences
The study found that there is a substantial correlation between students' involvement in extra-curricular activities and their academic performance and behaviour in the school. The peer-group relation is characterized by notable changes in students' behaviour and their involvement in extra-curricular activities, attributed to the knowledge and skills acquired through their participation in these activities.
The study's findings hold valuable implications for the educational landscape in Ondo East Local Government area, Ondo State. By comprehending the intricate interplay between peer groups and adolescent behaviour within the specific cultural and economic context, educators can design targeted interventions to enhance both academic performance and personal growth. Parents can gain insightss into their children's challenges and triumphs, enabling more effective guidance. Policymakers can use the insights to formulate policies that promote comprehensive student development while considering the regional nuances.